Introduction
Cracker Barrel is known for its delicious homestyle cooking, and one of its most beloved side dishes is the warm, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced fried apples. These apples are the perfect combination of tender, caramelized goodness with a touch of spice, making them an irresistible treat. While Cracker Barrel’s fried apples are typically cooked on a stovetop, using a slow cooker enhances the flavors by allowing the apples to slowly break down and absorb all the rich sweetness and spices.
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are perfect for a cozy breakfast, a delightful dessert, or a comforting side dish. Whether you serve them over pancakes, alongside pork chops, or as a topping for vanilla ice cream, this recipe brings a taste of Southern comfort right to your kitchen. Best of all, the slow cooker does all the work for you, making this a hassle-free and hands-off recipe. Let’s explore how to create this delicious dish step by step.
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and spice. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6-8 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 cup apple cider (or water)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness
- A pinch of cloves for a deeper spice flavor
Equipment Needed
To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple kitchen tools:
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot): A 4-6 quart slow cooker is ideal.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the apples.
- Mixing Bowl: To coat the apples with sugar and spices.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Apples
The foundation of this dish is the apples, so choosing the right variety and prepping them properly is crucial.
- Wash the apples thoroughly.
- Core and slice the apples into wedges (peeling is optional – leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, while peeling creates a softer result).
- Toss the apples in a large bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Mixing the Ingredients
Once the apples are prepped, it’s time to coat them in the perfect blend of spices and sweetness.
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture over the apples and toss until evenly coated.
- Pour the apple cider or water into the slow cooker.
- Add the coated apples to the slow cooker and spread them evenly.
- Dot the apples with small pieces of butter for extra richness.
- Add vanilla extract if using.
3. Slow Cooking Process
The slow cooker allows the apples to absorb the flavors deeply while becoming perfectly tender.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 3-4 hours, or set it to high for 1.5-2 hours.
- Stir the apples occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Thickening the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, follow this simple step towards the end of cooking:
- Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water until smooth.
- Pour the cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Stir gently and let the sauce thicken.
Serving Suggestions
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways:
Breakfast Options:
- Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
- Mix into oatmeal or yogurt for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Serve alongside buttermilk biscuits with a drizzle of honey.
Dessert Ideas:
- Use as a topping for vanilla ice cream or cheesecake.
- Layer with whipped cream and granola for a parfait.
- Serve warm over pound cake or shortbread.
Savory Pairings:
- Serve as a side dish with pork chops, roasted turkey, or ham.
- Pair with cheese and crackers for a unique appetizer.
- Add to a warm grain bowl with quinoa or wild rice.
Variations & Customizations
Want to put your own twist on this classic recipe? Try these variations:
Healthier Alternatives:
- Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey.
- Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- Reduce the amount of butter or use a plant-based alternative.
Flavor Enhancements:
- Add a splash of bourbon or rum for a deep, rich flavor.
- Use orange juice instead of apple cider for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Seasonal Twists:
- For a fall-inspired dish, add pumpkin spice.
- In summer, serve these apples cold with whipped cream for a refreshing treat.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Slow Cooker Fried Apples can be stored and reheated easily:
Refrigeration:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
Freezing:
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Store for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Meal Prep Tip:
- Make a large batch and portion it out for easy weekday breakfasts or quick desserts.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples are a simple yet indulgent dish that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. With their tender texture, caramelized sweetness, and warm spices, they’re perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re serving them with breakfast, dessert, or as a savory side dish, these apples are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
The best part? The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy the wonderful aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen. Plus, with so many ways to customize the recipe, you can make it uniquely yours. Try making a batch today and enjoy this delicious, comforting treat!
Happy cooking!
